In 2012, during ASU's first spring practice under new coach Todd Graham, former ASU tight end Chris Coyle didn't participate because of a shoulder injury. Instead, Coyle stood with the coaches and signaled in plays, an experience that helped him learn and understand the Sun Devils' offense.

This spring, Kohl, out recovering from shoulder surgery, did the same thing.

"That helped him," tight ends coach Chip Long said. "He was our main signaler, so he was able to stay into what we were doing. He wasn't just over there riding the bike; he was able to keep his mind fresh and into the game. We obviously missed the physical reps and all that, but we'll get that during fall camp. "

Long is excited about Kohl. For one, Kohl, a member of ASU's first recruiting class under Graham, has been with him the longest. Secondly, Kohl, coming off the shoulder injury, should be ready to compete physically. (He has been used as a blocking fullback in the past). In fact, Long said he wouldn't be surprised if Kohl pushes expected starter De'Marieya Nelson for snaps.

"Kody brings an incredible amount of athleticism,'' Long said. "He might be the fastest , straight-line runner in my group. He knows our offense and he knows what I expect every single day."

ASU #12 De'Marieya Nelson reaches for a ball during a gold vs. maroon game at Sun Devil Stadium during Fanfest on April 19,2014. Fans had their photo taken with Sparky, autographs with player and watched a gold vs. maroon game. (Photo: CHERYL EVANS Cheryl Evans/The Republic)

Tight end De'Marieya Nelson hits the blocking sled during the second day of ASU's spring football practice at Bill Kajikawa Football Practice Fields in Tempe on Thursday, March 20, 2014. There will be 13 more practice sessions before the spring game is scheduled to kick off at 11 a.m. April 19 at Sun Devil Stadium. (Photo: Charlie Leight/azcentral sports)

De'Marieya Nelson celebrates his touchdown with teammate Darwin Rogers during the second quarter of the Territory Cup college football game against Arizona at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe. (Photo: Cheryl Evans/azcentral sports)